How can you tell the difference between mono and strep throat?

Both of these conditions can cause a sore throat, but there are distinct differences. A sore throat from strep throat will typically lead to enlarged tonsils, and there can also be red and white patches in the throat. Mono will often make an individual feel fatigued, which is typically not a symptom of strep throat.

Can strep be mistaken for mono?

Mononucleosis is frequently mistaken for other illnesses, such as strep throat, chronic fatigue, or another infection, because the symptoms can overlap, Ramilo says.

What does mono sore throat feel like?

Severe sore throat, which is almost always present and lasts about 6-10 days. The throat may be very red, with white spots or pus on the tonsils. This can initially look similar to strep throat. Fever of 100-103° F (37.8-39.4° C), which is usually worst during the first week and may worsen at night.

Can you test positive for strep throat and have mono?

Still, some experts do believe that you can have both strep and mono at the same time because these infections have a 'synergistic effect' on a child's inflamed throat and tonsils, for example, making it more likely that you could become infected with mono while having strep.

How are strep throat and mononucleosis similar?

Symptoms of strep throat are very similar to those of mono and can include: Sore throat (that often starts suddenly) Red and swollen tonsils. Headache.

Medical Mondays: Strep vs.Sore throat

Does mono cause white spots on tonsils?

Infectious mononucleosis

This highly contagious viral infection, also called mono, can cause white spots on your tonsils and in your throat. Additional symptoms of mono include: fever. fatigue.

How long does a sore throat with mono last?

Sore throat — A sore throat may last seven to 21 days. However, in severe cases of mono it may last as long as six months. Swollen lymph nodes — A person infected with mono may experience swelling of the lymph nodes, primarily in the neck.

Does mono always have a fever?

Mono in adults

Mono mostly affects people in their teens and 20s. It occurs less commonly in adults over the age of 30. Older adults with mono will usually have a fever but may not have other symptoms such as a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, or an enlarged spleen.

What's strep throat look like?

Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus. Tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth (soft or hard palate) Swollen, tender lymph nodes in your neck. Fever.

What are the stages of mono?

What does mono feel like in the beginning?

Mono may begin slowly with fatigue, a general ill feeling, headache, and sore throat. The sore throat slowly gets worse. Your tonsils become swollen and develop a whitish-yellow covering. Often, the lymph nodes in the neck are swollen and painful.

Should I take Tylenol or ibuprofen with mono?

The most important thing you can do when you have mono is get plenty of rest and drink enough liquids. You may want to take a pain reliever such as acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (some brand names: Advil, Motrin, Nuprin). Do not give aspirin to children with mono.

How can I get rid of mono fast?

What does mononucleosis look like?

The common signs of mono include swollen, red tonsils, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, and a fever that ranges from 102°F to 104°F. About one-third of people who have mono have a whitish coating on their tonsils. Approximately 50% of people with mono have swollen spleens.

Will mono go away on its own?

Mononucleosis (mono) is a viral infection that causes a sore throat and fever. Cases often happen in teens and young adults. It goes away on its own after a few weeks of rest.

What does mono fatigue feel like?

You might feel more tired than usual and have a mild fever and sore throat. Your lymph nodes, tissue that normally acts as filters, may swell under your arms and in your neck and groin area. You also may have body aches and pains, swollen tonsils, headache, and even a skin rash.

What are 3 symptoms of strep throat?

Are white dots in throat always strep?

Strep throat is a common cause of white spots in the throat, but oral thrush, tonsillitis and other infections may also cause this symptom. White spots in the throat are most frequently caused by infections. There are several possible causes for white spots in the throat.

How can you test for strep throat at home?

Rapid strep test kits are available over the counter at drugstores and do not require a doctor's prescription. These tests are quick and easy to use, giving you results in as little as five minutes. It works just like a rapid test that doctors perform.

Does mono make you sleepy?

Rest: Mono makes you very tired. Sleep helps your body fight infection. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ease fever, inflammation, headaches and muscle aches.

What causes mono to flare up?

The most common cause of mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr virus, but other viruses also can cause similar symptoms. This virus is spread through saliva, and you may catch it from kissing or from sharing food or drinks.

Is mono a STD?

Technically, yes, mono can be considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI). But that's not to say that all cases of mono are STIs. Mono, or infectious mononucleosis as you might hear your doctor call it, is a contagious disease caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV is a member of the herpesvirus family.

Does mono sore throat get worse at night?

Severe sore throat, which is almost always present and lasts about 6-10 days. The throat may be very red, with white spots or pus on the tonsils. This can initially look similar to strep throat. Fever of 100-103° F (37.8-39.4° C), which is usually lowest during the first week and may worsen at night.

Do antibiotics help mono?

Antibiotics don't work against viral infections such as mono. Treatment mainly involves taking care of yourself, such as getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids. You may take over-the-counter pain relievers to treat a fever or sore throat.

Can I go to work with mono?

Many people with mono develop an enlarged spleen, which can last for a few weeks or longer. Although you can return to school or work when you are feeling better, it's important to avoid activities that can cause injury to the spleen.